…snakes are inoffensive under the vast majority of circumstances. People are rarely indifferent about them, generally exhibiting emotions that range from religious awe and superstitious dread to repulsion and uncontrollable fear. It is interesting to note that, although most people profess to fear or hate snakes, one of the most visited areas of any zoo is the snake house—proof that snakes are mysterious and fascinating, even if they are loathed. Given their exquisite colours, patterns, and graceful movements as they crawl, swim, or climb, some snakes can be considered among the most beautiful animals.

Nearly every culture since prehistoric times (including various present-day cultures) has worshipped, revered, or feared snakes. Serpent worship is one of the earliest forms of veneration, with some carvings dating to 10,000 bc. Although Satan is depicted as a serpent in the biblical account of the Creation, snakes are revered by most societies. Owing to ignorance, a vast global compendium of superstitions and mythologies about snakes has sprung up. Many stem from the snake’s biological peculiarities: its ability to shed the skin is associated with immortality; the ever-open eyes represent omniscience; their propensity for sudden appearance and disappearance allies snakes with magic and ghosts; a phallic resemblance embodies procreative powers; and the ability to kill with a single bite engenders fear of any snakelike creature.

A pair of Asian vine snakes of the genus Ahaetulla. They are so light that they can extend about half their body length without support. This ability helps them travel from branch to branch through the trees. Photo credit: Tim Davis—Stone/Getty Images